Steve Sarkisian explains why he ‘wouldn’t be surprised’ if Arch Manning plays 5th CFB season
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Arch Manning is entering his 4th collegiate season in 2026. Texas coach Steve Sarkisian thinks it might not be his last year.
Manning arrived at Texas in 2023, taking a redshirt. He served as the backup quarterback in 2024 and took over as QB1 for the 2025 campaign.
RELATED: Did you know Underdog is legal in Texas? See why it’s considered one of the best DFS apps!
Heading into the 2025 season, there was lots of hype around Manning as an NFL Draft prospect. After an up-and-down season, Manning elected to return for 2026. Sarkisian told Kay Adams on Monday that while he and his QB haven’t discussed his future beyond 2026, he wouldn’t be surprised to see Manning back for a redshirt senior.
“You know, we haven’t had the discussion,” Sarkisian said on Up & Adams. “But I will tell you, I would not be surprised. I think Arch really loves college football.
“I really do. I think he loves the University of Texas. You know, he does pretty good through NIL.”
Sarkisian acknowledged that some key factors in Manning’s decision for 2027 may have to play out on the field.
“I think some of that is dependent upon, you know, how we play as a team this fall, how he plays individually, knock on wood, injury-free football, things like that,” Sarkisian said. “But again, that’s not our focus. Our focus is on getting ready for the season, getting ready for Texas State in Week 1, and then Ohio State, then UTSA, then Tennessee, so on and so forth.”
"I wouldn't be surprised." 👀
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) June 15, 2026
Steve Sarkisian on Arch Manning potentially returning to the Longhorns after the 2026 season@heykayadams | @TexasFootball pic.twitter.com/YfLx192DEH
Manning’s uncles are sure to come up in discussions surrounding the Texas quarterback’s future. Eli Manning spent 5 years at Ole Miss, redshirting in 1999 before playing in 43 games over the next 4 seasons. Peyton Manning did not redshirt, and played in 49 games over 4 seasons at Tennessee.
Will Arch Manning go pro? Manning currently leads Kalshi‘s odds for No. 1 pick in the 2027 NFL Draft!
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
